The UK5G innovation network has officially launched, with a remit to unify the UK’s fledgling 5G industry and to help ensure that the country is a front-runner in 5G development.
UK5G is the name that has been chosen to represent a consortium incorporating Cambridge Wireless, Knowledge Transfer Network and TM Forum. Funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, UK5G will set about binding the UK’s various 5G stakeholders together.
The three companies now identified under the UK5G banner won a UK government competition to deliver the so-called 5G Innovation Network. This was the preliminary name given to a ‘network of networks’ with the intention of bringing together and promoting UK-based 5G organisations and initiatives.
Now that the consortium has been officially named and launched, it intends to encourage collaborative efforts between various local organisations with 5G interests. This will include members of industry, researchers, the public sector and entrepreneurs.
It will also be down to UK5G to act as an information resource for the entire industry, as well as to share news of any 5G technology breakthroughs with the general public.
Another part of UK5G’s remit is to assist the government in encouraging UK investment in 5G technologies, both inward and outward.
Taking the lead in the UK5G consortium is Cambridge Wireless, a leading international community for wireless technology companies.
CW’s CEO Bob Driver said, “This is a fantastic opportunity for the UK to build and enhance its position in the implementation of the next generation of mobile communication - and the end-goal is to help these technologies rapidly transform our societies and economic performance. We encourage all interested parties to become involved in the building of this community.”
In addition to the official launch of UK5G, the membership of its Advisory Board was announced. The group of 25 members from across the 5G industry - including company executives, academics and regulators - aims to provide UK5G with expert guidance.
The board will also provide feedback to the UK government’s 5G Testbeds and Trials Programme, advising on future areas of focus and identifying priorities.
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Jon has nine years experience of writing and editing copy for leading publications, as well as attending technology shows and events and conducting interviews. Currently working with 5G.co.uk, TechRadar, Trusted Reviews, T3, Digital Spy, What Mobile, Pocket Gamer, and The Gadget Show.
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